Dragon Hall, a magnificent medieval merchant's trading hall, stands proudly on King Street in Norwich, Norfolk. This Grade-1 listed building is a testament to the city's rich history and is now home to the National Centre for Writing. Its unique status as the only such trading hall in Northern Europe owned by a single individual makes it a remarkable architectural gem in the heart of Norwich.
The illustrious history of Dragon Hall dates back to the 15th century, although the site itself holds secrets from even earlier times. Archaeological evidence reveals the presence of an Anglo-Saxon hut dating to around the year 1000 beneath the hall. By the late 13th century, the northern part of the site was bustling with activity, as the abbey at Woburn, Bedfordshire, operated a fish processing facility with outbuildings and a track leading to the river.
In approximately 1330, an L-shaped domestic 'hall house' was constructed on the southern portion of the site by John Page. This structure featured an undercroft and an entrance from Old Barge Yard. Fast forward to 1427, and the ambitious Norwich merchant Robert Toppes reimagined the site as a commercial hub, building his first-floor trading hall atop the existing structures.
Little is known about Robert Toppes, the man behind Dragon Hall, but his impact on Norwich was significant. As a prominent exporter of worsted and importer of textiles, iron goods, wine, and spices, Toppes quickly rose to prominence in the city's political landscape. He served as Norwich's Treasurer, Sheriff, and even Mayor on four occasions, representing the city in Parliament four times.
Toppes' influence extended beyond commerce. His second wife, Joan Knyvett, was related to the Pastons, famous for the Paston Letters. Upon his death in 1467, Toppes left a lasting legacy, ensuring priests prayed for his soul with funds from the sale of his King Street property.
After Toppes' death, Dragon Hall underwent a gradual transformation. Sold in 1467, it was divided into smaller residences, and its original features were altered. By the 19th century, the building was known as the Old Barge Building, housing over 150 people in poor conditions. The 1937 Slum Clearance programme removed much of the surrounding housing, but the hall itself faced an uncertain future.
In the 1970s, the building's historical significance was recognized, leading to efforts to restore it. Norwich City Council purchased the now-uninhabited hall in 1979, launching a major restoration campaign. The Norfolk and Norwich Heritage Trust took charge, removing partitions, floors, and chimneys to return the hall to its former glory. By 1986, it was reborn as Dragon Hall, a heritage attraction and community resource.
In 2015, Dragon Hall entered a new chapter as the lease was taken over by the Writers’ Centre Norwich. The National Centre for Writing was established in 2018, with Dragon Hall as its home. A new North Wing was added, providing office and meeting spaces, and a 19th-century cottage on the site was converted for visiting writers and translators.
The Dragon Hall Heritage Volunteers play a vital role in preserving the building's legacy, offering tours, talks, and maintaining an online archive of documents and photographs. Their dedication ensures that Dragon Hall remains a vibrant part of Norwich's cultural landscape.
Dragon Hall offers bookable guided tours twice a month, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and stunning architecture. During the Heritage Open Days in September, additional tours are organized, and special group bookings can be arranged. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, Dragon Hall provides a fascinating glimpse into Norwich's past.
In conclusion, Dragon Hall is not just an architectural wonder; it is a symbol of Norwich's enduring spirit and historical significance. From its medieval roots to its modern role as a cultural hub, Dragon Hall continues to captivate and inspire all who visit.
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